John Molamphy, a 2020 Sandhills Community College Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) program graduate, has always respected law enforcement. He recalls admiring all those in the profession for as long as he can remember. "My passion for law enforcement started because my uncle is a deputy in Florida. After hearing him tell about the people he helped and impacted, it sparked my interest in the job," says Molamphy.
Molamphy chose the Sandhills BLET program because it was close to home and has a reputation for producing top-notch talent. "Sandhills is special because of its instructors," says Molamphy adding, "they are extremely knowledgeable and influential. If not for them, I wouldn't be where I am today."
In addition to top-notch instructors, Sandhills is one of the few BLET programs in the state with a VirTra® simulator. The VirTra 300 is a state-of-the-art virtual simulator that contains five large screens for a 300-degree immersive training environment. This training environment recreates physiological stressors such as an elevated heart rate or high adrenaline levels that officers experience during intense situations. In addition, the system provides training in de-escalation, use of force, handling people with disabilities or mental illness, and communication skills. "This technology made me much more prepared for scenarios I have encountered in the field," says Molamphy.
Since graduation, Molamphy decided to remain in the area. He began his law enforcement career with the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office, where he was presented the Lifesaving Award. "There is something special about being there for people during their darkest times," says Molamphy. More recently, he has taken a Sheriff's Deputy position with Moore County Sheriff's Office. "In a few years, I see myself still on the road at the Moore County Sheriff's Office or as a Detective," he says.
Molamphy advises those considering a career in law enforcement to "stay focused and keep your eyes on your goals. Don't let yourself get distracted or let anyone tell you that you can't do it." The next BLET class at Sandhills will begin on August 28 and end the first week of December.
This course takes only three and a half months to complete. It will meet Monday-Friday from 8 AM to 5:30 PM and several Saturdays. There is no cost to take the class; the State of North Carolina will pay tuition. There will be out-of-pocket expenses for textbooks and uniforms, but the College may have resources to assist with such costs. All trainees must be 20 years of age at course completion. Applicants who are 19 years old can be accepted with a waiver.
Those interested in BLET should complete and submit the registration packet as soon as possible. For further information or to obtain registration material, contact Robert Kehoe at (910) 693-2666 or kehoer@sandhills.edu or Mary Lou Coffey at (910) 693-2667 or coffeym@sandhills.edu.